plate no. 2847

The Kuli-Kuta Dance, Niamey

Alexandre Jacovleff, 1926

oilNeoclassicismgenre paintingfiguresrobesdrumsceremonyknivessky

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in rendering fabric folds and depicting figures in a realistic style. It also provides practice in creating a focal point through composition and value contrast.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 20 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figures and the main shapes of the robes.
step 02
Block in the main colors: the blue sky, the off-white robes, and the dark skin tones.
step 03
Begin to define the folds of the robes, paying attention to the highlights and shadows.
step 04
Refine the details of the faces and hands, using subtle color variations to create depth.
step 05
Add the details of the drums and other accessories.
step 06
Adjust the values to create a strong sense of light and shadow.
step 07
Add the final details, such as the texture of the fabric and the reflections on the knives.
step 08
Review the painting and make any necessary adjustments.

color palette

primary · ultramarine blue · yellow ochre · ivory black · titanium white

secondary · burnt sienna · cadmium red light

Mix the robe color by combining white with a touch of yellow ochre and a hint of burnt sienna. Achieve the skin tones by mixing black with burnt sienna and a touch of red.

techniques